Legislative Action Alert

House Bill 132 (HB132), which legalizes Daily Fantasy Sports (Draft Kings, Fan Duel, etc.) has been passed by the Ohio Senate and is expected to reach Ohio Governor, John Kasich’s desk, by the end of the year.

While PGNO maintains a neutral stance regarding gambling, we do advocate to ensure appropriate consumer protections are included. HB132 does not provide sufficient support for our citizens in a number of areas, including: adequate age verification, acceptable voluntary exclusion program, funds to support prevention and treatment services, and requirements to include the Ohio Problem Gambling Helpline on all advertising.

The bill would grant the Ohio Casino Control Commission the authority to regulate fantasy contests, however, the bill views Daily Fantasy Sports as ‘skilled gaming’ and would exempt fantasy contests from the gambling laws.

All people have a vested interest in ensuring sufficient precautions are in place for legislation that impact all citizens. We urge you to take action on one or more of these three simple action steps:

• Action one: contact Governor John Kasich’s office and deliver this important message: “I’m a constituent, and I’m reaching out to support stronger consumer protections for House Bill 132. Any expansion of gaming should include a strong age verification system, a voluntary exclusion program that applies to all gaming, as well as prevention and treatment funds set aside for those who will be negatively impacted.”
• Action two: share this information with your board members, colleagues, volunteers, and your friends. Encourage them to reach out and advocate their support to protect Ohioans from problem gambling.
• Action three: Utilize social media to share this important message and include @PGNOhio.

Additional Resources:

• The most recent version of the bill is available at legislature.ohio.gov
• Learn more about DFS, and the work being done to protect consumers, at NCPGambling.org
• A quick overview of the bill is available at NBC4i.com

Together, we can make families stronger, communities safer, and Ohio a better place for all.

Sincerely,

Derek Longmeier

Executive Director